Calgary is a city located in the province of Alberta, Canada, situated in the western part of the country near the Canadian Rockies.
Quick Facts
Location & Borders
Calgary is situated in the southern part of the province of Alberta, near the Canadian Rockies. The city is located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, and is surrounded by the Municipal District of Foothills No. 31 to the south, Rocky View County to the north and east, and the Tsuut'ina Nation to the southwest. Calgary is a significant urban center in western Canada, and is located about 80 kilometers east of the Canadian Rockies, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The city's location near the Canadian Rockies provides easy access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Calgary is also situated near several major highways, including the Trans-Canada Highway, which connects the city to other major urban centers in Canada. The city's international airport provides easy access to destinations around the world, making Calgary a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
Terrain & Landscape
Calgary's terrain is characterized by a mix of prairies and foothills, with the Canadian Rockies rising up to the west. The city is situated in the Bow River valley, which provides a relatively flat and fertile area for agriculture and urban development. The surrounding foothills are covered in a mix of forests and grasslands, and are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bears. The Canadian Rockies, which rise up to the west of the city, are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with their rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and scenic valleys.
The city itself is situated on a relatively flat plain, with several rivers and creeks flowing through it. The Bow River, which flows through the city, is a popular destination for fishing and boating, and provides a scenic backdrop for many of the city's parks and green spaces. The surrounding countryside is also home to several lakes and wetlands, which provide habitat for a variety of waterfowl and other wildlife.
The terrain and landscape of Calgary have played a significant role in shaping the city's history and development. The city's location near the Canadian Rockies has made it an important center for the oil and gas industry, as well as for tourism and outdoor recreation. The city's relatively flat terrain has also made it an attractive location for agriculture and urban development.
Climate By Season
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | December to February | -10 to -20°C | 10-20 cm | cold and snowy |
| Spring | March to May | 10 to 20°C | 20-30 cm | mild and rainy |
| Summer | June to August | 20 to 30°C | 10-20 cm | warm and sunny |
| Autumn | September to November | 10 to 20°C | 10-20 cm | cool and dry |
Best Time To Visit
Best months: June to August. Why: the warm and sunny weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Avoid: December to February, as the cold and snowy weather can make it difficult to get around and enjoy the city's outdoor attractions.
Natural Highlights
- Banff National Park: a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and scenic valleys.
- Kananaskis Country: a scenic region located just west of Calgary, with its rolling hills, forests, and abundant wildlife.
- Fish Creek Provincial Park: a large urban park located in southern Calgary, with its forests, wetlands, and scenic creek valleys.
- Prince's Island Park: a scenic park located in the Bow River, with its forests, gardens, and scenic walking trails.
- Glenmore Reservoir: a large lake located in southern Calgary, with its scenic walking trails and abundant waterfowl.
- Nose Hill Park: a large urban park located in northern Calgary, with its forests, grasslands, and scenic views of the city and surrounding countryside.